Uttarakhand School Erects Temple to Ward Off Haunting Spirit, Triggers Controversy and Probe
A government school located in the serene Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand has become embroiled in a significant controversy after constructing a small temple within its campus. The purpose of this unusual structure was to "appease the spirit of a man" who is believed to have haunted the school premises for the past three decades. This incident has drawn widespread attention and raised serious questions about the use of school funds and local beliefs influencing educational environments.
Background of the Haunting and Initial Measures
The controversy centers around a government school in Kausani, where locals have long held a belief that the spirit of a Nepali laborer, who died in an accidental fall near the school thirty years ago, roams the area. Initially, school authorities attempted to address unexplained incidents, such as several girls falling unconscious on campus, by building a makeshift brick structure. This was intended to "keep the spirit away" and provide a sense of security to students and staff.
According to an anonymous teacher at the school, counseling sessions were conducted for the affected girls before resorting to temple construction. "In the hills, belief in both gods and spirits is strong. The temple was seen as a way to curb fear," the teacher explained, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual beliefs prevalent in the region.
Funding and Construction of the Temple
In January of this year, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of the school initiated the construction of a more permanent temple. Sources reveal that funds were raised by collecting Rs 100 from each of the 218 students enrolled in Classes 6 to 12, totaling Rs 21,800. The overall cost of the project was estimated to be around Rs 25,000, with the remaining amount contributed by parents and teachers.
PTA president Chandan Singh Bhandari justified the decision, stating that students were "frequently falling ill," and the temple was seen as a necessary step to ensure their well-being. Principal Tajbar Singh Negi added that the money was collected with parental consent during a PTA meeting and was intended for both cleaning the campus and building the small temple. "The aim was to create a peaceful environment for studies," Negi emphasized.
Controversy Erupts and Education Department Steps In
However, the situation took a contentious turn when parents and students recently began questioning the collection and utilization of the funds. This led to the matter coming to the attention of the education department, which ordered a formal probe on Thursday. District chief education officer Vinay Kumar announced, "The matter will be investigated and strict action will be taken against those found responsible. The inquiry has been assigned to the block education officer in Garur."
The controversy highlights a clash between traditional beliefs and modern educational norms, raising concerns about the appropriateness of using school resources for such purposes. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how authorities will balance cultural sensitivities with regulatory compliance in this unique case.
